The long awaited new respite service for north Louth is set to become operational later this month, the Argus has learned.

The HSE had entered into an agreement with Praxis Care in November to open an adult Respite Care centre in Dundalk.

In the last few days it has been confirmed that the facility, to be known as 'Arlee House' will be located on the Dublin Road in Dundalk and will operate four respite beds."

Louth TD, Fergus O'Dowd, has welcomed news that the long awaited respite service for persons with disabilities in North Louth is hoped to be fully operational in the next few weeks.

O'Dowd said: 'I received a promising update from the Chief Officer of CHO8, it outlined that the service is awaiting registration from HIQA and all going well we should see the beds operational this month. This will be a great relief to many of the families I represent across County Louth.'

He added: 'This announcement is on the back of the opening of the Bower House Respite Centre earlier in 2018 which caters for many families in County Louth and has been a massive success to date.'

Deputy O'Dowd added: 'This news will be a further boost for families in dire need of respite in the County and also to the vital carers in our community who deserve a much needed break.'

He pointed out: 'The members of the Louth Respite Forum and all of the tireless disability campaigners we have in County Louth must be acknowledged as without them this would not be possible'

The news emerged after years of campaigning by the support group Dundalk Parents and Friends for the restoration of vital respite services.

The new facility is expected to provide up to 1,350 bed nights every year, which will be allocated after assessments are carried out by Praxis Care.

Respite is a vital service for those who are caring for people with disabilities, providing an opportunity for rest, or time to spend with other family members.